The licensing of public relations practitioners by government has long been controversial. A survey was conducted of members of the public relations division of the Association for Education in Journalism under the auspices of the division's committee on professional freedom and responsibility. One-hundred and sixty-one questionnaires were mailed asking whether practioners should be licensed; if so, by federal or state governments, and by written or oral tests or by coursework; and if not, should there be professional monitoring of practices. Sixty-three questionnaires were returned, a 39% response rate. Forty-four members were opposed to any licensing of public relations practitioners (69.8%). However, 34 of those opposing licensing (77.3%) believed that there is a need to monitor public relations practices to achieve higher standards of professionalism. Many of those submitting negative responses to licensing suggested alternatives such as higher professional standards, better education, and improved training. Discussion of this question in public relations courses is recommended to prepare students for professional realities. (DF)